Vision
The Kenilworth Close Regeneration Project is a significant redevelopment aimed at revitalising the Bragbury End neighbourhood centre. Permission had been granted for 236 units across four applications, with 229 units on the Kenilworth Close site itself. The project aims to:
- Provide 50% affordable (council) housing.
- Implement a 50:50 profit-sharing model between the council and the developer for the market housing.
This project involves building over 200 new homes, new retail spaces, and a modern independent living centre, greatly improving the area’s residential and community facilities.
The site previously housed two outdated independent living schemes, poor-quality retail units, and a community centre known as the Bragbury Centre, which closed during the Covid-19 pandemic due to financial challenges. The existing structures and large areas of greenspace between buildings, typical of 1950s suburban development, were no longer suitable for long-term use.
The project was guided by a shared vision of “working for the common good,” addressing the needs of vulnerable communities, people in housing need, and the elderly with extra care requirements. Early engagement was crucial, with key stakeholders such as water authorities and highways involved from the outset. This proactive approach prevented delays and swiftly addressed technical issues. Public consultations were essential to the project’s success. Despite initial objections, ongoing dialogue with the community led to increased public support as the development progressed.
The new landscaping and design aim to create more usable and beneficial open spaces, aligning with the council’s housing goals.
The redevelopment plan includes:
- 88 one and two-bedroom apartments in a state-of-the-art independent living centre
- New homes and community facilities arranged around a central green space
- Advanced environmental features such as air source heat pumps, solar panels, and electric vehicle charging points, all exceeding current building regulations
- A mix of private and council rental housing with high-quality finishes, rooftop gardens, large communal areas, and retail units
Sustainability
The project focuses on sustainability through several effective measures. By using renewable energy sources like air source heat pumps and solar panels, the project cuts greenhouse gas emissions and reduces long-term costs for residents. Installing electric vehicle charging points encourages the use of electric cars, helping to lower carbon emissions. Buildings are designed to be energy-efficient, with good insulation, energy-saving windows, and sustainable materials, all of which reduce energy use and environmental impact.
Additionally, the project reimagines green spaces to increase housing density while boosting biodiversity, providing recreational areas, and improving residents’ quality of life. Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) manage water effectively, reducing flood risks, improving water quality, and supporting local wildlife.
The project is a model of successful urban redevelopment through careful planning, early stakeholder engagement, and strong public consultation. By focusing on sustainability and community needs, this project aims to transform Bragbury End into a vibrant, modern neighbourhood. The development not only provides high-quality, affordable housing but also incorporates advanced environmental features, ensuring long-term benefits for residents and the environment.
This project stands as a testament to the positive impact of collaboration between the public and private sectors in creating sustainable, liveable communities for current and future generations.
Go to housing at Stevenage Borough Council